Disclaimer: I don’t own Gargoyles. This story takes place after the series’ finale.
Chapter One- Preparations
Elisa thought she knew what to expect from the clan at any given situation, so to see the trio and Angela in a state of great excitement as worth pausing in her steps to observe it. She resumed her approach to Goliath who also seemed to be a little excited himself and he brought confirmation to her guess as to why.
“Looking forward to the eclipse, Big Guy?” she asked as she was given a hug.
“Of course. A total solar eclipse is rare.”
“Will this eclipse be your first one in a thousand years?”
“Yes. I’ve wondered about that as there had to be other solar eclipses over the centuries. I surmise that the spell kept us from waking during such times.”
“So, you guys will be awake during the eclipse,” Elisa stated, though she was surprised to hear this bit of news.
Goliath nodded. “Yes and once the sun starts to shine again, we will sleep until night.”
“It’ll be quite a view from up here,” Elisa remarked as she admired a view she had seen many times before.
“You are welcome to witness the eclipse with us. I am certain Xanatos will allow it.”
Elisa couldn’t disagree with that. Xanatos always permitted her to visit the castle whenever she wished as she came only to see her friends and Goliath, whom she regarded as her boyfriend.
She hadn’t told her parents that she loved Goliath but knew she should. The clan had just gained acceptance from the city but there was still fear and hate, the latter from the Quarrymen who still sought to destroy the clan despite Castaway being in jail and the organization disbanded. The time to tell her parents was definitely at hand. Perhaps I’ll tell them on my way here for the eclipse which is tomorrow.
Goliath was also deep in thought. Only a week had passed since the clan was vindicated and while a good deal of the city accepted them, there were still those who sought their destruction. That does not matter. We will continue to protect this city as we have been. Among those who truly know us is Elisa’s family.
“Goliath?” Elisa spoke up. “I’m thinking of telling my parents about us being together.”
“Yes. They should know and I am sure they will understand. When do you plan to talk to them?”
“I’m thinking tomorrow before coming here for the eclipse.”
Goliath was a bit surprised by how soon Elisa planned to tell her parents, but saw no reason to ask if she was sure. They had known each other for over two years now and he knew that once Elisa had made a decision, she followed through on it.
He had met Peter and Diane Maza once before as well as Elisa’s younger sister, Beth. Diane had guided him through the issue of Angela insisting on calling Goliath her father and it resolved happily for his daughter. Peter had demonstrated that Elisa had gotten her stubborn streak from him. He had refused to believe that mystical and mythical beings existed until the end while Beth believed instantly.
All in all, he like the entire Maza family and was reasonably sure they liked him, but did they like him enough to accept him as Elisa’s lover? If they do not, Elisa will continue our relationship. She is a grown woman and will conduct herself as she sees fit.
There was no concern if the clan approved of them being in love. He knew they did and he had not exactly been subtle in his feelings when he had thought Elisa had died and when he saw her alive during the Hunter’s Moon incident. He recalled saying one time that Elisa was part of the clan and at that point, he was fond of her and felt something akin to love.
All of this went through Goliath’s head in a minute and was about to continue the subject of telling the parents when he saw a preoccupied expression on her face that prompted him to say, “What is wrong?”
“It could be nothing, but I found a note under my windshield wiper shortly before I got here.” She pulled out a piece of paper from inside her jacket and passed it to him. He opened it to see a single statement: You are a traitor to humanity and will reap your punishment.
He gave a low growl before saying, “Any idea who could have sent this?”
“No. Do you?”
“A Quarryman and most likely on Castaway’s orders. I was in pain when we encountered him for the first time but I heard him say that you had abandoned humanity for us and that you would share our fate.”
“So, it’s likely that a Quarryman visited Castaway and he may have told him what to write,” Elisa said. “I would view this as a threat but this note is not enough proof.”
“I see it as a threat as well. No doubt you will be careful.”
“Of course.” Elisa allowed Goliath to pull her toward himself so that her back was to him and then he put his arms around her waist before the two of them gazed out into the night, enjoying the other’s company in silence.
On Riker’s Island prison, a casually dressed man sat in front of a glass partition with a speaker at mouth level; on the other side of the divider sat Jon Castaway in a prison uniform and wearing a neutral expression. “Your report, Maxwell.”
“The note was placed on Ms. Maza’s car as you directed.”
“Excellent and is our…gift for her ready?”
“Yes, sir, but…are you sure you want her to receive it without any other reason?”
“I didn’t say that. We will speak again in two nights.”
“Yes, sir.” Maxwell left and a guard appeared beside Castaway who calmly followed him back to his cell where he laid on his cell bed and stared at the ceiling with a satisfied smirk once the guard was gone.
Maza had been a thorn in his side ever since he founded The Quarrymen. Every attempt to destroy the gargoyles was with hampered or thwarted by that woman, the former allowed the gargoyles to triumph over him.
He reflected on every Quarryman activity in which Maza had been present in some way. The very first was trying to smash Goliath as he slept. Other times involved the giant air cannons, the attack at the hospital, and of course, the train attack. Castaway’s thoughts returned to the first encounter.
It had been clear that Elisa and Goliath cared deeply for one another, a friendship that was deeper than he had ever seen. The scene where their first encounter ended showed him that the two of them were more than friends: They were in love! It was a notion that sickened him and affirmed his belief that the woman had abandoned humanity and sided with the monsters.
That brings me to the plan I have for Maza. Obviously I could not speak plainly earlier, but Maxwell knows what to do. Maza will reap her reward for turning her back on humanity. There are still enough people who are wary of the gargoyles’ existence and once my plan for Maza comes to fruition, their wariness will focus on her as well. Castaway’s smirk broadened into a sadistic grin.
Chapter Two- Parental Approval
Elisa slowly exhaled as she sat between her parents on the couch. She was nervous about what she was going to say, but was determined to say it. “So, Mom, Dad,” she said. “Are you ready for the eclipse?”
“Of course,” Peter said. “Your mom and I have the special glasses to view it and a good place to see it. I imagine you do as well.”
“Yes. Xanatos will let me see it from his castle. Also, the eclipse will wake the gargoyles until the eclipse starts to ends.”
“It will?” Diane gasped in surprise.
Elisa nodded. “Goliath told me that.” She steeled herself. “Mom, Dad, I have something to tell you.”
“What is it, dear?” Diane asked.
“I’m…in love with Goliath. It was on the night the clan moved back to the castle. I know it seems strange and I should have told you earlier, but I-,”
“Elisa,” Peter interrupted. “We long suspected there was something between you and Goliath when I returned from Arizona. We have no objections over him as we know he would protect you as much as he would the city.”
“Was it that obvious?” she asked, but happy that they had accepted her relationship with Goliath.
Peter and Diane laughed. “After my encounter with Coyote and your mother’s adventure in Nigeria, it’s clear that our family is special. Meeting the gargoyles made this revelation clear. I will say that I sleep soundly knowing that the gargoyles are watching over us and the city.”
Diane nodded. “Yes; after what you told me, I realized that they are just as human as we are.”
“Right.” Elisa checked her watch. “I need to go so I can greet Goliath when he wakes.” She rose and hugged her parents. “Thanks for understanding.”
“Of course, honey,” Peter said.
&&&&
Maxwell skulked around near Elisa’s car, a dart cupped in his protected hand. He could have assigned another Quarryman to stick Maza with the dart but he wanted revenge. He blamed Maza for the loss of the silver hammer Castaway had promised him. Truthfully, he cost himself the loss of the hammer for he told Castaway of the train which led Castaway to lead an attack on it and him getting arrested. However, he blamed the police for arresting his boss and while he knew going after the entire police force was foolish, he was eager to avenge Castaway’s arrest, thus he was awaiting Elisa’s return to her car so he could strike. He heard footsteps and looked over to see Elisa heading down the sidewalk. He pushed off the wall he had been leaning against and started up the sidewalk toward her.
“Detective,” he said neutrally once closer.
“Yes?” she asked.
“You were one of the officers that was part of arresting Castaway, yes?”
“I was on the scene.”
Maxwell flashed a smile. “Of course you were. I was there when you insisted on talking Ms. Yale.”
“Oh, yes. Maxwell, I believe she called you.”
“That’s right. I was hoping to shake your hand for you protecting the gargoyles that were on the train.” He held out a hand, the dart in his other hand.
Elisa, like most humans, could not resist shaking hands. She took Maxwell’s hand. “Well, it was my job but I do appreciate-,” she began and then gasped as Maxwell, moving fast, jabbed the dart into her neck.
She backed away and yanked the dart out of her neck before glaring at Maxwell who smirked in satisfaction. “Your punishment has been dealt and I have my revenge.”
“What?”
“I told Castaway about the train and he promised me a silver hammer at our next meeting as a reward. But that meeting didn’t happen! I spoke to Castaway at the prison and he revealed a plan he had for you and I saw it as a way to get revenge for the reward I didn’t receive.” Maxwell flashed a cruel smile before turning and vanishing into a crowd that swallowed him up.
Elisa went to her car, the spent dart in her pocket. She needed to have it and herself examined and there was no question of who she was going to see. I only hope that Xanatos can determine what I’ve been stuck with and find a cure. The sooner I get there, the better it will be.
She drove to the Eyrie Building and was in the elevator when her head began to pound and she felt slightly dizzy. She cradled her head as the elevator doors opened and she staggered out, moaning softly.
“Detective?” came Xanatos’ voice, concerning lacing it.
She slowly lifted her head and looked at him with pain-filled eyes. “I was attacked,” she said in a low tone. “I got stuck with this.” She pulled out the dart and handed it over as Owen came up on the scene.
Xanatos passed the dart to Owen. “Get whatever trace you can find analyzed.” He turned to Elisa. “I suggest having my medical team examine you.”
“I agree.”
Xanatos guided Elisa to the infirmary. “Do you know who attacked you?”
“Yes. Maxwell. He works for Margo Yale, the D.A. Turns out he’s a Quarryman. He told Castaway about the train and was promised a reward only he didn’t get it. Castaway revealed a plan to him and Maxwell decided to assist him to get revenge for not getting his reward.” She staggered a little. “I’m feeling dizzy and my head hurts.”
“Easy, detective. We’re almost there.” Xanatos assisted Elisa into the infirmary and onto a bed before calling for the doctor on duty. He then got a cup of water and some aspirin for Elisa and brought them to her. She swallowed the medicine eagerly and drank all the water before lying down to wait for the medicine to take effect.
The doctor came in and after explaining the situation, Xanatos left to see if anything was learned about the dart. “Owen, any progress?” he asked as he entered the room.
“Clearly, it contained a formula. I cannot say what it was designed to do, however, I can say that it will activate once it turns dark. Furthermore, it is irreversible and has no counter.”
“Dark. Would the eclipse count as dark?”
“I’m afraid so, sir.”
Xanatos frowned. There was an unknown formula running through Elisa and preparing to activate once it got dark. The medicine I gave her had a sedative in it so she’s asleep right now.
“Should we tell Detective Maza?”
“Not right now, however, I will call Detective Bluestone and invite him here as well as inform him of what’s happened and what we know.” Xanatos left to make the call.
Chapter Three- The Eclipse
Elisa’s eyes fluttered open and she blinked sleepily as she worked to rouse herself to wakefulness. Her headache was gone and, as she eased herself to sitting, she found that she wasn’t dizzy anymore. However, there was now a dull ache that spread through her body.
“Elisa,” Matt said, getting her to look up.
“Matt?”
Xanatos invited me here for the eclipse and told me about the attack.”
“Has he found out anything about that dart?” she asked as she gingerly got out of bed.
“Uh, yeah. It had a formula designed to activate once it’s dark. It’s irreversible and has no counter.”
“Dark!? That would mean that the eclipse will trigger it!” Elisa had reason to be alarmed. The effects of the formula were unknown and there was no way to keep it from activating.
Matt did not tell Elisa to calm down for he didn’t know what it did, either. If it kills her, I will try to have Maxwell arrested and have Castaway charged with conspiracy to murder. “Let’s head outside. Maybe the eclipse won’t trigger it.”
“Yeah, okay,” Elisa said, feeling a little calmer. She, for no reason she could explain, removed her jacket and got the glasses out of her inside pocket before she and Matt headed outside.
It was still bright and sunny, however the moon was visible as a round black object that was slowly moving toward the sun. Elisa went back inside to climb the stairs that led to Goliath’s spot, Matt right behind her. They emerged from the stairs and donned the glasses to look up at the moon as it moved closer to its goal. Elisa felt her heart pounding as she watched this event and knowing that she was not the only one watching; yet she also dreaded what would happen to her once the eclipse occurred. She slipped off her glasses and looked around; it was advised to only wear the glasses for a few minutes at a time to protect one’s eyesight and she heeded that advice. There were glasses for the clan and each one was in a protective box behind their sleeping spots.
“Here it comes,” Matt said and Elisa put her glasses on again to look up. Matt was right: The moon was starting to move in front of the sun. The sky was starting to darken and Elisa gasped as her dull ache sharpened and she went to one knee while her hands gripped her head.
Her actions did not go unnoticed. Matt had whirled around upon hearing Elisa’s gasp. “Elisa!” he exclaimed as he went to her side and knelt down. “Elisa?”
She began to breathe hard as she planted her other knee and hands on the floor. She squeezed her eyes shut as pain shot through her body, therefore she did not see the changes to her body, though she certainly felt them.
But, Matt did see the changes and while they were startling, he took comfort in the fact that she was not dying. Her skin darkened to a shade he would call dark brown sugar and her fingers went from five to four and became claws. An elbow spur grew from both elbows and her ears became long and pointed.
Elisa gasped, moaned, and groaned in pain as her body continued to alter. It was obvious to Matt that the formula was changing her into a gargoyle, but why? It made no sense. He grimaced as Elisa groaned from her muscles growing bigger and, in some places, thicker. He heard cloth tearing and saw that her shoes had ripped open, revealing two three-toed feet with the heels up and sporting a heel spur each.
Elisa gave an ear-shattering scream that drowned out the first cracking of stone. Her legs popped and cracked into a different shape and a tail burst from her jeans, and a pair of wings tore out of her shirt. Her eyes glowed red for a moment as the roars of the clan faded away.
Goliath resisted looking at the covered sun as he had been warned about looking at it without a special pair of glasses. He heard the awed sounds of the trio as they clearly wasted no time in donning their glasses. He turned to jump down and grab his pair but paused at seeing Matt crouched beside an unknown female gargoyle, but her skin tone, hair, and clothes told him who she was.
He jumped down and crouched in front of her. “Elisa,” he said gently. She lifted her head and he saw there was still slight pain in her eyes. “Goliath,” she replied softly.
She planted her feet on the floor and pushed herself upright, staggering a little from her legs’ new formation. She looked at her hands and then back at the wings on her back. I really am a gargoyle, but why would Castaway have me be a gargoyle? It makes no sense.
“How…?” Goliath asked.
“I was stuck with a dart by a Quarryman as I left my parents’ place. He works for Margo Yale and that’s how the Quarrymen knew about the train. He claimed that he was going to be rewarded at the next meeting which, of course, didn’t happen. I think he sent the note because after he attacked, he said that my punishment has been dealt.”
“But, why a gargoyle?” asked Goliath.
“It be Castaway’s idea of a nightmare,” she said. “It also fits the part of the note calling me a traitor to humanity.” She knelt down and retrieved her eclipse glasses which had survived her change and slipped them on which prompted Goliath to grab his and put them on as did Matt.
Goliath looked up and a breath of air escaped him. “Amazing,” he said. “Better than I dreamed.”
“And a total eclipse like this won’t be visible from Manhattan the next time one comes around,” Matt said.
Elisa watched the eclipse in silence as her thoughts were on her transformation. Was this a one-time change? Was she a gargoyle from this point on? If she had to guess from the note and what Maxwell said, she would say yes.
She then began to think about what changes she would have to make to her life. She knew she would not sleep in her bed as she doubted it would support the weight of her stone body. She also would lock her bedroom door to insure safety. She thought of her pet and would need to put out food and water so he didn’t go hungry.
Her job was her next consideration. She suspected that Chavez would be accommodating but would the force and the city be equally so? After all, only a week had passed since the people accepted the clan. There were still people who were wary of the gargoyles or still sought their destruction. Her life in general had altered in terms of safety.
Goliath looked away from the eclipse and lowered his glasses to see Elisa had done the same but seemed lost in thought as her gaze was on the floor. No doubt she is thinking of how different her life will be now. She cannot go out in daylight as she will turn to stone. Going out in public at all may not be possible doing any shopping will be difficult.
Her job…I can’t say if she will be allowed to keep it or not. It would be nice if she can. The loss of her job can lead to the loss of her home and no food to eat. Goliath clenched a fist as he thought of how Castaway had disrupted Elisa’s life. He knew he would stand by her as her life changed around her. There wasn’t much he could do to help with her human life, but he can help her in adjusting to her gargoyle form. The most obvious one is teaching her to glide.
Chapter Four- Chavez
“Elisa, you are welcome to sleep here today,” Goliath said as the eclipse was about to end.
“Thanks. I will.” She took up a spot nearby and struck a pose that she hoped looked intimidating. “It doesn’t hurt, does it?” she asked casually.
“There is a feeling of your body stiffening, but it does not hurt.”
Good. I’ve had enough pain today. She looked ahead and her face shifted to match her body’s pose. The sky was starting to brighten as the moon continued on its path away from the sun.
Elisa heard the cracking of stone forming and waited to feel her body stiffen and for her to fall asleep; instead pain went through her and she doubled over and cried out. It soon passed and Elisa looked down to see human hands.
“Elisa, you’re human again,” Matt said.
“Then, that would mean that I’m a gargoyle at night only.” She slipped off her spot and onto the floor. She shifted from foot to foot before they set off down the stairs. “Oh, that floor’s cold,” she remarked.
“I can imagine,” Matt said as they dropped by the infirmary to retrieve Elisa’s jacket and when they did, they found a pair of socks and shoes both of which Elisa put on gratefully.
“I’ll need to tell Chavez what happened,” Elisa said as they rode the elevator down.
“I called her while I waited for you to wake up. I spoke of the attack and the formula, but not who was responsible or what the formula does since I didn’t have that information.”
“So, she’ll be expecting me,” she said as the doors opened.
“Yeah, I think she is.”
“Then, I better get to it as it’ll be sunset in a few hours.” Elisa got into her car and drove off to the station, considering her words carefully.
&&&&
“Come in,” Chavez said when she heard a knock. She looked up and put her work aside. “Maza, good. Bluestone told me you were attacked and that he was waiting for you to wake up.” She gestured to the chair in front of the desk.
Elisa sat. “I don’t know if we can arrest my assailant-,” she began.
“Assault is a crime, as you know, so we can arrest him.”
“Yes. It’s just that…Captain, I know this will be hard to believe and I’ll need to provide proof, but when it turned dark during the eclipse, I…turned into a gargoyle. Obviously, I’m human now but when night falls, I’ll change again.”
Chavez regarded Elisa with a raised eyebrow. “You’re right,” she said at last. “It is hard to believe and I will want proof.”
“I can do that tonight.”
“Agreed. Now, who’s responsible for the attack?”
“Well, a man by the name of Maxwell did the deed, but I believe he did it at the direction of Castaway. Maxwell works for the D.A.”
“Which would indicate that he was part of The Quarrymen and it explains how they found out about the train transfer. All right, Maza. You’re dismissed but I want you back here to prove that you change into a gargoyle.”
Elisa nodded as she rose and left, aware that her clothes were a bit tattered and resolved to trim them so that they looked more presentable when she returned. It would seem that I still have a job which means that much of my life won’t change.
Chavez watched Elisa leave, noting the tattered jeans and knowing she would come back with them in better condition. She had been concerned when Matt called her to report the attack and that a formula with an unknown effect had been introduced into Elisa’s body. Now, the effect was known and she would be given proof tonight.
If it’s true, Maza won’t be fired. She’s still a cop and one of my detectives. Her body may change, but her mind won’t. I find the attack odd as well as the ones responsible. I will contact Ms. Yale and question her about Maxwell to learn more about him. Naturally, I will tell her why I’m asking about him. With that, Chavez picked up her phone and dialed the D.A.’s office.
“I see,” Yale said several minutes later. “Well, he does still work for me but given the circumstances, I cannot allow him to remain in my employ. I’m afraid he won’t be in until the day after tomorrow. He said he would be out of town and didn’t leave me a number to reach him at. Yes. Mr. Bluestone is welcome to come and arrest him when Maxwell reports in. Goodbye, Captain.” Yale hung up and reflected on the phone call.
Not that long ago, she had been bent on prosecuting the gargoyles, been completely on the side of those who hated them. But when the gargoyles saved a train full of people from The Quarrymen who were focused on destroying the gargoyles and not caring about the people had changed her opinion about them. She declared in front of cameras that the charges against them had been dropped.
Now, she found that Maxwell, who had been a loyal employee, had committed assault; moreover on Detective Maza. Captain Chavez had told her that Maza claimed a dart full of formula had turned her into a gargoyle during today’s eclipse and that she would change again tonight.
Whether that’s true or not is not my concern’ mine is firing Maxwell and having him arrested. All I can do is wait for him to report for work and when he does, I will call Chavez so Detective Bluestone can make the arrest.
Elisa entered Chavez’s office, her jeans trimmed and a modified black shirt under her jacket. Her shoes and socks were her usual ones and she began to remove them, putting them in a small pouch on her waist. “It will hurt, but I’ll be okay,” she said.
She felt a stabbing in her abdomen and she doubled over, clutching at it. She groaned at the pain and the sensation of her body stretching and altering into the one she had a few hours ago. Her eyes glowed before fading. She straightened up and looked at Chavez who had leaned back in mild surprise at her transformation. She tucked her hair behind her pointed ears and waited.
Chavez appraised Elisa before saying, “All right. This is solid proof. You’re not fired, obviously. You’re a good officer and I have no doubt that you will continue to be so.”
“Of course, Captain.”
“Then, get out there and do your duty. Report to me after sunrise.”
“Yes, Captain.” Elisa draped her jacket over her arm and left the office before heading to the tower above. Other officers gave her double takes and she simply nodded to them as she passed.
She entered the room to the tower and ascended the ladder to what had been the clan’s home at one time. The destruction had been devastating and it still was. She made her way to the edge, looked down, and backed away.
“Elisa!” came a voice and Elisa looked up to see Matt with Goliath carrying him. The two landed and Elisa handed over her jacket and car keys.
“Be careful with my car,” she said. “I’ll need it in the morning.”
“She won’t get a scratch,” he said as he descended into the station to report to Chavez who would update him on the matter of arresting Maxwell.
Chapter Five- On Patrol
“Will your attacker be arrested?” Goliath asked as they stood at the tower’s edge.
“Yes. I don’t know when but I hope it’s soon. Anyway, Captain Chavez clearly didn’t fire me and wants me to report to her after sunrise.”
“Good. I was worried when I awoke and didn’t see you. Bluestone was there and told me you became human again. I am glad that your life has not been altered greatly.”
“So am I. Now, I could use some gliding lessons.”
Goliath smiled and refrained from saying it was easy because he knew Elisa would point out that it is easy if one had been a gargoyle all their life. Instead, he launched himself into the air and turned to face Elisa, hovering in mid-air. He gestured for Elisa to join him.
Elisa inhaled and then let it out before copying Goliath’s moves. She half-expected to fall, but instead she felt wind under her wings which lifted her up. She gave a brief gasp as she went past Goliath who quickly rose up to meet her and held out a hand. She took it and he guided her down.
“Not bad. Not bad at all.”
She smiled slightly and Goliath was truly struck by how beautiful she was. He would never see her human again except in his memories, but there was nothing he could do about it. The formula was irreversible and she would be a gargoyle at night for the rest of her life.
“Elisa, your parents will need to know about this,” he said as he negotiated her through an updraft.
“Of course and so will Beth and Derek.” Elisa was a little concerned of what they’ll thing but she knew they would understand once she had explained. Telling Beth will have to be done over the phone, though. She pushed those thoughts aside to focus on her job and learning to glide.
Speaking of my job... Pushing the communicator she always wore, she said, “Matt, pick up anything?”
“Nothing,” he replied. “Looks like it’s going to be a quiet night.” She could almost hear a smile in his voice as he added, “Go back to your date.”
“Matt!” she exclaimed and Goliath gave a low laugh.
Matt laughed once the connection was cut off. He had spoken to Goliath once he had woken up and saw Elisa wasn’t there. He told him that Elisa had changed back to human but was now a gargoyles again and proving it to Chavez. Goliath insisted on gliding Matt to the station so he could give Elisa gliding lessons.
Technically, Elisa is on duty but she needs those lessons. I can contact Brooklyn or Angela or whoever else is patrolling tonight.
Matt kept a steady foot on the accelerator. He didn’t get to drive Elisa’s car much; she sometimes teased his driving skills and he would retort that she never let him drive. Well, he would be driving her car more often as Elisa had wings to use. She may be able to get to crime scenes faster as there’s not much traffic in the sky.
Elisa sidestepped a punch thrown at her before she leg swept him and he fell on his back. She looked up the alley to see Goliath dispatching his own opponent. The young man who had been the victim stared at his saviors with awe and appreciation for the rescue.
Her attention snapped back to the man she had been fighting. He had gotten to his feet and staggered a bit before he yanked out a knife and lunged at her, the weapon swinging in a vertical arc.
Elisa avoided the strike and then another and another for the man was whipping the knife rapidly, determined to score a hit. She kept avoiding the swings and was trying to devise a counter attack when the man whipped the knife in the different direction and the edge of the blade drew a thin ribbon of blood along the top of her forearm. She gave a yell and she heard Goliath roar before the man ran screaming from the scene due to the intensity of the roar.
“Elisa,” Goliath said as he crouched down as she was crouched as well.
“It’s…not too bad,” she said in a shaky voice.
The young man they saved approached, reached inside his coat, and pulled out a mini first aid kit. “I know I have some gauze in here,” he said as he opened it. He ripped open an anti-bacterial wipe, crouched down, took Elisa’s hand from the wound, and wiped the blood from it.
“I’m grateful for what you did,” he said as he wiped the blood from the arm. “Wait…where’s the cut?” All three looked at the arm; the wound where the blood had come from was gone, completely healed!
“Do gargoyles heal quickly?” the man asked, looking from one to the other.
“No,” Goliath said in a stunned tone.
Elisa was also stunned, but less so as she had her suspicions of how this was possible. She said nothing as they climbed up and had taken off, but once in the air, she said, “Goliath, I think I know why my arm healed so fast.”
“As do I and I suspect we have the same idea.”
“I don’t turn to stone so my healing factor is faster.”
“Yes, that is what I thought. A useful ability.”
“Useful, yes, but it still makes no sense of why Castaway would have this done to me as I like this.”
“Perhaps a visit to him is in order.”
Elisa nodded. “Yes, I’ll arrange to talk to him and get some answers.”
“Elisa? It’s Matt.”
She touched her com. “What’s up, Matt?”
“There are some tenants in the Fifth Avenue apartments reporting concerns of a stalker in the alley facing the fire escapes. I’m getting statements so if you could check for the stalker, that’d be great. He or she usually shows up about this time.”
“On our way,” she replied as she slowly managed to turn in the direction of the apartment building. She was still new to her wings and therefore could not maneuver as gracefully as the others. It’s fine. I’ll have time to practice as tomorrow is my nigh off and I’ll have wings every night from now on.
I will need to tell the family, admitting I don’t know the motive but I will tell them once I learn it. I wonder how Castaway was able to create a formula to do this; a scientific version of the spell that turns Demon into a human during the day. I intend to find out how he managed to create such a formula.
Goliath turned with her, content to let her lead the way. She was on duty after all and he was to provide backup while teaching her the finer points of gliding.
I am relieved that her change has not altered her life. She can do her job at night and do her errands during the day. If Castaway was plotting some kind of revenge on Elisa, it would seem to have backfired. When Elisa questions him, she will learn his intentions.
Chapter Six- Telling Family
Elisa executed a decent landing at the station’s tower with Matt waiting for her. “Thanks for checking that alley, partner. Sorry you didn’t see the stalker,” Matt said.
Elisa shrugged nonchalantly. “Maybe he saw us overhead and chose to leave.”
“So…are we over our fear of heights?” he asked.
“I’m sorry?”
“The trio couldn’t resist telling me about the last time you were a gargoyle. You were afraid to glide until Goliath became a human in mid-air and you saved him.”
“Oh, yeah. I think there was still some human in me at the time. I got over it to save Goliath and fight Demona. I think, as long as I have wings, I don’t have a fear of heights or falling.”
“That makes sense.” The two stood in silence as they watched the sky lighten with the coming sunrise, Elisa preparing herself for the pain of her change. Bands of color bloomed over the horizon as the first rays of the sun appeared and, with it, Elisa’s screams as she shifted from gargoyle to human. She pulled out her socks and shoes, put them on, and took her jacket and keys from Matt.
“Chavez told me that Maxwell’s out of town but will be at work tomorrow. Ms. Yale will inform Chavez when he comes in, and she’ll tell me so I can arrest him,” Matt said as they walked through the station.
“Good. I plan to pay Castaway a visit to get some answers. Right now, I fail to see how being a gargoyles at night is a bad thing. Yes, the pain of changing back and forth is inconvenient, but I learned a cool ability.”
“Yeah?” They stopped outside Chavez’s office.
Elisa pushed back her left jacket sleeve. “I had gotten a knife cut but it healed not long before you called.”
“Whoa. Faster healing. That is cool.”
“Goliath and I believe it’s because I don’t turn to stone.”
“I think you’re both right. Well, enjoy your night off.”
“You too.” Elisa knocked and entered when told to do so. “Reporting in as ordered, Captain.”
Chavez nodded. “Maza, did Bluestone tell you he will be arresting Maxwell tomorrow?”
“He did. Captain, I have reason to believe he attacked me at the direction of Castaway. I would like to question him as soon as possible.”
Chavez regarded her officer. She knew Elisa well enough to know that she would do what she was told, but would also do what she felt in heart to be right. Whether she supported her or not, she would question Castaway anyway. “I will inform the prison to expect you today.”
“Thanks Captain.” Elisa left the office and out to her car where she drove over to the pier to wait for the next boat out to Riker’s and while she waited, she took a nap in her car.<> Castaway had just finished his lunch when two guards appeared at his side. “You have a visitor, Mr. Castaway,” one said.
“A visitor? Well, let’s not keep them waiting.” He rose and followed his escorts to the visiting room of the prison. He was led to one of the stations and was mildly surprised to see Elisa siting on the other side. “Detective Maza,” he said as he sat and the guards left to give them privacy.
“Enjoy the eclipse yesterday, Detective? I admit I did not; the best I got was a dark sky.”
“Cut the pleasantries,” Elisa stated in a no-nonsense tone. “I’ve got questions for you. Yesterday, one of your ex-members, Maxwell, stuck me with a dart and, during the eclipse, I turned into a gargoyle. I changed back to human when it ended but I changed again last night. Maxwell admitted that you had a plan for me.”
Castaway smiled slightly. “Did he now? Well, it’s all true. I directed him to deliver the dart to you or have another do it. I thought Maxwell would do it as he was the one who put that note on your car.”
“But, why? I don’t appreciate the pain, but making me a gargoyle at night makes no sense.”
“Honestly, it doesn’t now. I had hoped you would change during the eclipse in a crowd of people. I know not everyone are fine with gargoyles living among us and imagined some of them attacking you.” He leaned closer to the speaker. “You abandoned humanity for those monsters and even loving one. I say you deserved what you got.”
Elisa scowled as she rose and left the room. Castaway allowed himself a satisfied smirk before the guards returned to lead him back to his cell. He hadn’t expected Elisa to visit him, but it did give him an opportunity to gloat.
She didn’t ask for a cure. She must have figured that there isn’t one and she is correct. She will remain as she is for life. I had hoped she would change in front of others during the eclipse but I surmise that she didn’t. No matter. I can have Maxwell lay a trap where she will change and be attacked; at night, of course. More of an impact that way.
Elisa, once off Riker’s and back in her car, drove to her parents. Peter and Diane were a little surprised to see their daughter two days in a row but let her in, nevertheless.
“Honestly, honey, we thought you would be asleep,” Peter said.
“I did take a nap this morning,” she said. “I needed to question Castaway.”
“Why?” Peter asked.
“When I left your place, I was attacked by an ex-Quarryman with a dart. Its effect activated at the height of the eclipse and I became a gargoyles. Castaway admitted that he had planned for me to be a gargoyles every night. He told me that he thinks I deserved this.”
Both were silent as they digested what they just heard. Finally, Diane said, “You really turned into a gargoyle?”
“Yes. I have plenty of witnesses. The clan saw me and so did Matt and Captain Chavez. I imagine Xanatos saw it on his cameras.”
“How was he able to create such a formula?” Peter wondered.
“Good question, Dad. I’d rather ask Xanatos to see if he has any ideas.”
“Have you been gliding yet?” Diane asked.
“Last night. Goliath kept me company during my shift and helped me with takeoff, negotiating the wind currents, and other fine points. Mom, Dad, I like being in the sky. The city is beautiful up there. I plan to do more practice tonight since it’s my night off.”
“Of course; just do overdo it,” Diane said.
Elisa stood. “I want to tell Derek about this. Could you call Beth and let her know?”
“Of course.” Peter gave Elisa a hug. “You know you didn’t deserve this. No one does.” “I know.” Elisa gave her mother a hug before leaving the apartment. She looked up at the sky and estimated that she had enough time to drive home, change clothes, and get to the Labyrinth before nightfall. I may have to explain it after I’ve changed.
Chapter Seven- A New Plan
Elisa groaned as the familiar pain of her change raced through her body. She felt her wings push out and her eyes glowed as she stretched and gave her first roar. Her eyes’ glow faded and she focused on Talon, a.k.a., Derek, whose mouth parted slightly, and he blinked in surprise.
“I can explain,” she said.
“I’m listening.”
“An ex-Quarryman attacked me with a dart that had a formula in it. He let it slip that it was a plan Castaway came up with and he decided to help him with it.
“I spoke to Castaway this morning and he admitted that he had hoped I would change in a crowd during the eclipse.”
“During the eclipse?” Talon said in confusion.
“The formula was designed to activate once it got dark and it was administered to me before the eclipse.”
Talon gave a low growl of anger before it ceased as his yellow eyes assessed his sister. “You look good. I’m a little jealous.”
Elisa laughed. “Derek, you can fly with your wings while I glide; if anything I should be jealous over that.”
Talon laughed too. “So, I imagine that nothing else about your life has changed.”
She nodded. “I still have my job and my home. I did learn that I heal faster.”
“Sorry?”
She held out her arm. “I was fighting someone who had a knife on him last night and I got cut on my arm.” She drew a claw over the part where the injury had been. “When the person Goliath and I protected cleaned off the blood, the wound was gone. Goliath and I believe this is because I don’t turn to stone.”
“I would have to agree. So…there’s no cure?”
“None. But I’m okay with that.”
Elisa smiled a little as she emerged from the Labyrinth. She really was okay with being a gargoyle at night. She had the best of both worlds, in her opinion. She did not turn to stone but could experience the joy of gliding on her own wings. And I planned to practice tonight. She climbed up the side a building to the roof, spread her wings, and took off, being sure she used the tips Goliath had given her last night. She was still wobbly in going higher, but she was rising nonetheless.
She then tucked her wings as she went into a dive. The wind whistled in her ears as she sped downward before opening her wings and soaring back up. She laughed as she rose up and through the clouds where the top of the Eyrie Building and Castle Wyvern were the only things visible from this height. She hovered in mid-air as she admired the view and then the realization that she was hovering. She laughed again before sending herself into motion. She glided for the spot where the clan slept and managed to land neatly on the floor. I’m doing better tonight; almost as if I was meant to be a gargoyle.
She headed inside and toward Xanatos’ office to ask the question her father had posed. She was confident that he had the formula examined; the minute trace that told them when it would activate and that it was irreversible. She reached the office to find Xanatos standing outside it.
“Detective,” he said warmly. “Looking for Goliath?”
“Actually, I wanted to see you first. I’m wondering if you learned anything more about the formula.”
“You mean beyond your faster healing factor?” Xanatos smiled at Elisa’s surprised look. “I overheard Goliath tell the others about it. Anyway, yes, we did learn something. It took some digging but as near as we can determine, it seems he used a hair, blood, or skin sample from Demona.”
“It had to be when Robyn was working for her. It wouldn’t be too hard to collect a hair that fell off. Or a Quarryman could have gotten a sample another way.”
“Either way, her transformation was isolated and mixed into a liquid formula. The healing factor came from her gargoyles genes and joined with your natural healing process. You’re not immortal which I imagine is a relief to you.”
“You’re right about that.”
Xanatos opened his office door to enter, but paused to say, “Goliath’s in the library,” before going in.
Elisa hurried to the library, teaching herself to move on all fours which she found to be natural and able to cover long distances. She stood on two legs as she reached the library, opened a door, and went in.
There was a fire crackling in the fireplace and Goliath was seated in an armchair, reading. He looked up and over at hearing the door open and a tender look crossed his face. “Elisa,” he said as he closed the book and set it aside as he rose, went to her, and embraced her. “I wondered if you would visit.”
“I’ve had a long day. Once I had clocked out, I drove out to Riker’s to question Castaway about why he had me changed. Then, I went to Mom and Dad to tell them what he said before I went to Derek where I changed and then explained. After that, I came here to ask if Xanatos learned anything more about the formula.”
“You have had a long day,” Goliath commented. “So, what did Castaway and Xanatos say?”
“Castaway was hoping I would change in a crowd during the eclipse and then be attacked. Xanatos said he believes that Castaway or a Quarryman go their hands on a sample of Demona’s DNA and isolated her transformation part and mixed it into the formula. He added that the faster healing is a combination of a gargoyle’s and a human’s natural healing process.”
Goliath was fascinated with what Elisa had learned. We now have a reason for the attack, but it failed. It is likely Castaway is forming anther plan.
&&&&
“Maxwell. Thank you for coming earlier than we planned.”
“Of course, sir.”
Castaway leaned in closer and whispered, “Maza did not change in a crowd as I had hoped. I want you to arrange something so that she will change in front of people.”
Maxwell leaned in closer as well. “Then, changing her into a gargoyle at night was supposed to be a punishment?”
“Exactly. She avoided my original intention so we must arrange another one.”
“Perhaps a rally or protest outside Maza’s apartment,” Maxwell said thoughtfully. “A small one but with enough people to prevent her from leaving before she changes.”
“Yes, that might do the trick. Get in touch with those who avoided jail and have them organize the event. You are due to be back at work tomorrow.”
“Right. I’ll get the word out and maybe suggest they get a news reporter so Maza’s change will be caught on camera.”
“Perfect. See to it.” Maxwell rose, nodded, and left so he could contact the free Quarrymen and lay out the plan for a rally, not telling them about Elisa’s change. Their reaction needed to be genuine.
Chapter Eight- The Protest
Maxwell was pleased as he headed to work. He was able to contact a dozen Quarrymen with a few of them saying they’d be able to bring others who also hated gargoyles. One of the ones he contacted had a connection to a reporter at WVRN and could convince him to cover the rally/protest. Castaway will be pleased. I might still get that silver hammer yet.
He reached the D.A.’s office and was about to sit at his desk when Yale’s door opened and Yale said, “Maxwell, welcome back. Could you come here? I’ve got some matters to discuss and I want your input.”
“Sure, Ms. Yale.” He followed Yale inside and up to her desk, unaware that Matt was behind the door and was quietly coming up behind him.
“I’m thinking of bringing a proposal to the mayor of giving the gargoyles full citizenship status as well as a proper thank you for their heroism. What do you think?”
Maxwell was appalled. Honor those monsters with citizenships? Before he could respond, he felt his arms being pinned back and handcuffs being snapped onto his wrists. “Hey! Wha-?” he said.
“You are under arrest for assault on a police officer,” Matt declared.
Yale smiled a little as Matt began to lead Maxwell out of the office. “Oh and by the way, Maxwell? You’re fired.”
Matt put Maxwell in the squad car, read him his rights, and then drove to the station. Matt led him to an interrogation room and began questioning him about the assault; in truth, Matt already knew everything about it as Elisa had recounted it when she called him this morning before he left for the arrest and she went to sleep; however, proper procedures had to be followed. Maxwell calmly supplied the answers and allowed himself to be booked and put in a holding cell. He wasn’t too upset at being arrested and fired as the demonstration could be done without him. He had done his part.
Elisa grabbed her keys and left the apartment with a small smile. Matt had left a message on her answering machine telling her that Maxwell was in custody and admitted to being the attacker. She was happy that Maxwell was paying for his crime. He will likely not be sent to Riker’s as his crime is not as serious as Castaway’s or The Pack’s was or Xanatos’ for that matter.
Elisa exited the elevator on the ground floor and a fellow tenant approached her on his way to the elevator. “Be careful, Ms. Maza,” he said. “There’s a crowd outside and I think you’re the target.”
She nodded. “Thanks. I’ll be careful.” She looked curiously at the front door. There was indeed a crowd. They were holding signs and she could hear low chanting coming from them. There was even a news reporter and a cameraman. She exhaled slowly before she stepped outside and came down the stairs.
Almost immediately, she was surrounded by people who were shouting and waving their signs. It was almost impossible to know what they were saying but she caught the words, “monster lover” and “traitor.” These have to be the Quarrymen who weren’t arrested. Well, their faces are exposed so they’ll be easy to identify should they cause serious trouble.
“All right,” she said, her voice rising above the shouts which ceased when she spoke up. “You’ve made your feeling clear and I need to go to work. So, if you could step aside, that would be appreciated.”
Someone shouted and the crowd roared its approval as they stood their ground and resumed yelling and shouting their contempt for her. Elisa was anxious to get away as the sun was going down. She had taken to wearing no socks and slip-on shoes as well as leave her jacket at home. She invested in a D-ring to attach her keys to and then to her jeans belt loop. She discreetly slipped out of her shoes as she had a feeling that she would not be able to get away in time as the crowd continued to shout which drew attention from the passersby.
Elisa watched the sun fade and then felt the stabbing in her abdomen. She clutched it as she doubled over and screamed in pain which caused the shouts to cease and the people to back up. She groaned as her muscles grew, her fingers became four claws, her legs re-shaped themselves and her feet widening to three toes, her ears became pointed, her tail grew out, and her wings appeared. Her eyes glowed red as she stretched and roared to the night.
There were startled gasps from the protesters before they began shouting different words and converging on her again. Elisa seized her shoes and leaped over the heads of the people to her right. She stuffed the shoes into her pouch as she ran into the alley and then leaped up and sank her claws into the wall. She climbed to the roof and then glided away, the people still shouting after her.
She rose up higher and hovered there to calm her pounding heart. She could hardly believe what just happened, but had no doubt who was behind it: Castaway. Even from behind bars, he’s still causing trouble. She glided to the station’s tower to see Matt there.
“Elisa, what kept you? The captain wants to see you.”
“I got held up by a group of Quarrymen protesting outside the building. I couldn’t get away before night fell.”
“You’re not hurt, are you?”
“No, but there was a news camera there and it’ll have caught my change.”
Matt put a hand on her shoulder. “Go see the captain and tell her what happened.”
“Yeah. You’ll need someone to drive you over to get my car.” She handed over the keys.
“Sure.” He took the keys and preceded her into the station. He led her to Chavez’s office and then went to find someone to drive him over to Elisa’s car.
Chavez nodded as Elisa explained her tardiness. “All right, you’re excused given the situation. I suggest you take the next two nights off as your change will likely be on the news. Also, be careful out there tonight.”
“I’ll be careful and I’ll take those two nights off as well.” She turned and left, her wings folded to keep them out of the way. She didn’t spread them until she was in the tower and found Brooklyn and Angela there.
“Matt told us what happened,” Angela said, touching her communicator by way of explanation. “That was an awful thing to happen.”
“Yeah and I bet Castaway ordered it.”
“Hope you don’t mind but Goliath wanted us to watch out for you,” Brooklyn said. “You know, in case some Quarrymen decide to shoot at you.”
“I don’t mind and you could teach me to avoid shots while in the air.”
“Good idea,” Angela said as Elisa glided into the air before she and Brooklyn did the same. She truly felt awful when she heard of the protest and Elisa’s flight from it once she had changed. She agreed with Matt that the footage of Elisa’s change would be on the news; tonight at the earliest.
Brooklyn, however, was thinking of Elisa claiming that Castaway ordered the protest. He had no doubt of that as he had ordered Elisa attacked to change her into a gargoyle. He’s in prison and yet he’s still making life difficult. It’s one thing to target the clan, but to go after humans who are our friends is just sick. I know I’m not the only one who thinks that.
Chapter Nine- The Reveal
Goliath growled as the TV displayed Elisa’s transformation. It switched to the reporter who had been there to witness the protest and he spoke of how Elisa’s change supported rumors t6hat she was in love with a gargoyle. The reporter made it clear that he was disgusted by the notion and hinted that such a relationship could result in one becoming a gargoyle at night should they love a gargoyle.
“This is an outrage,” Goliath rumbled as Hudson turned off the TV. “Suggesting her change is due to her love for me. It is absurd.”
“Aye, lad, but others will not see it that way. They tend to believe the news.” Goliath knew Hudson was right. After all, the Canmores had portrayed the clan as villains and the city believed it as the gargoyles were not familiar to them. I’ve said it before; humans fear what they do not understand and what they don’t understand, they seek to destroy. The humans didn’t understand us so they sought our destruction. We have achieved acceptance, but now this story will cause the humans to ponder if we possess an ability we’ve kept secret.
&&&&
Elisa executed a barrel roll as Angela shot up toward her, but missed her. “Good,” she said as she wheeled around to face her.
“I need more practice with it,” Elisa commented. “That was a bit slow.”
“But it was a good start,” Angela insisted.
“Okay and I’ll have a little time to practice. Captain Chavez told me to talk the next two nights off as my change will be on the news.”
“You could practice at the castle,” Brooklyn suggested. “You would be safe there.”
Elisa had no doubt that she would be safe at the castle for its lofty height and constant cloud cover would conceal her from the eyes of those below. “I’ll head for the castle after dark tomorrow.” She then pressed her com. “Matt, it’s Elisa.”
“What’s up, partner?”
“You can keep my car the next two nights.”
“Why?”
“The captain insisted I take time off because of the footage of my change, whenever it airs.”
“All right. I’ll pick you up before sunset after two nights and I promise to take good care of your car.”
“Thanks, Matt.” She clicked off and returned to practice in addition to running patrols with Brooklyn and Angela.
Matt frowned as he dwelled on his recent conversation with Elisa. Her friendship with the gargoyles gave her troubles that normal people didn’t have and her relationship with Goliath added to those troubles. He was friends with the clan, but he didn’t attract the trouble Elisa did. And yet the trouble she gets into doesn’t seem all that bad. Her being a gargoyle isn’t bad, but the public sees her change as bad. Some people could threaten or harm her as others have. Yes, she heals faster, but she’s only had a cut heal. Bones could take longer to heal.
Matt exhaled slowly. He was getting himself agitated over his partner’s well-being and he knew he shouldn’t. Elisa was capable of taking care of herself. He recalled Elisa’s heroic acts she had told him when she, Goliath, Angela, and Bronx had been on what she called their World Tour. The strange figures she had run into and she not only stood up to them, she took them in stride, as if it was normal.
She has met figures of myth and legend, other gargoyles, and even an alien. I was jealous when I heard that one, but it proved my claims of aliens being real as true. The point is that Elisa can handle herself.
Elisa winced a little as she dabbed away the blood from a deep cut. What is it with criminals using knives instead of guns? I can’t really complain, though as bullets wouldn’t be easy to get out and they could cause internal damage. I know that personally.
“Elisa?” Angela asked, clear concern in her voice.
“I’m okay. Really.” She wiped away the blood to reveal no cut. “I heal faster, remember?”
Both stared at the arm. “Goliath told us,” Brooklyn said. “That is a really cool ability to have.”
Elisa nodded as they climbed up. It was cool, a perk anyone would love to have, but surely there were limits. It could take longer to heal a broken bone or a hole in one’s wing, for example. Of course, one can’t heal a broken neck or spine as those injuries are fatal. As long as I don’t suffer those injuries, I’ll be fine.
Elisa reported to Chavez to clock out with enough time to glide home before dawn. She practiced maneuvers as she headed home and was pleased to see that there were no protesters at the front doors before landing at her rooftop window. She stretched out her wings and rubbed her sore shoulders. I think I did overdo it. Well, nothing a decent sleep can’t fix. She opened her window, entered her apartment, closed the window, fed her cat, and prepared for her change. She had learned to keep her groans low so as to not annoy her neighbors. The last thing she needed was to be evicted for too much noise. The sun began to rise and she shifted back to human. She sighed before changing her clothes and getting into bed. She had two nights of practice ahead of her and would need all the rest she could get.
“The video’s already been aired?” Angela asked Goliath as the clan headed outside to sleep.
“Yes and a rumor attached suggesting she changed because of her love for me,” Goliath said.
“Not true, of course,” Brooklyn said. “If it was true…”
“I would have rejected her affections and explained why,” Goliath cut in. “Furthermore, if it was true and we fell for one another anyway, she would have changed not long after our admissions.”
“In any case,” Hudson said. “The lass will need to watch her step.”
“She’s been given two nights off because of the protest and I suggested she come here so she can practice evasive maneuvers,” Brooklyn said.
“Evasive maneuvers.” Goliath nodded. “She has mastered the basics and should learn the more complex moves. Here would be an ideal place to practice.” The clan took their places and were soon asleep.
Dominique Destine frowned as she studied the footage of Elisa’s change, having secured a copy from an employee of hers that worked at WVRN. The pain that Elisa clearly went through was similar to her own and wondered if she changed through sorcery like she did.
Dominique had kept to herself ever since she failed to eliminate Goliath and when she heard that most of Manhattan had accepted her kind, she felt her hatred for humanity fade a little and she took some time to reflect on her past and her war on humanity. She had been betrayed time and again over the centuries. She trusted humans and they ended up turning against her. She sought revenge for those betrayals but she would never succeed or if she did, she never felt good at what little satisfaction she had received.
Perhaps it is time to let go of the past and start anew. I would be accepted by the humans if I choose to walk among them at night now. I also need to make amends with the clan and especially with Angela. But first, I need to start a friendship with Elisa Maza. She was the first human in this era to befriend the clan and she has not betrayed them. I would like to have someone like her for a friend.
Chapter Ten- Making Amends
Elisa executed a fast barrel roll, the holographic laser of the Steel Clan robot missing her cleanly. She then dived, swooped, and spun to avoid more shots. Xanatos, overhearing about her training, rigged a Steel Clan robot with harmless holographic lasers to give her as close to a real world scenario without any harm to her. The robot’s computer tracked her progress so she could improve her maneuvers or move on to the next one she needed to know.
When the robot flew off in a different direction, she took that as a sign that practice was over for now. She wheeled around and headed for the courtyard where the clan stood. She landed and was embraced by Goliath.
“You’re a fast learner,” he said.
“I noticed,” she remarked. “I don’t think I’ll have much trouble dodging shots in the air.”
“Dodging opponents in the air is another matter,” Brooklyn put in.
Elisa knew he was referring specifically to Demona and she saw his point. Avoiding Demona in the air would require practiced. She would have to learn to dodge with wings instead of feet. She had related her fight with Demona to the clan once they had woken up and were back at the clock tower. The trio were highly amused by the story while Goliath and Hudson were impressed.
“Dodging airborne opponents will be tomorrow’s lesson,” Goliath said as he released Elisa but guided her inside. “Elisa? Have you seen the news footage of the protest? If not, Xanatos did record it.”
“I haven’t and I should see it so I’ll be prepared for the public’s attitude.” The pair headed to the office to ask to see the video. Several minutes later, they left, Elisa a little astounded by what she saw and heard.
“That is such a ridiculous thing to say. Is anyone really going to believe that?”
“Not everyone will but those who still wish to destroy us will believe it.”
She signed. “That’s true and I will certainly need to watch my step.”
Elisa spent some time with the clan until she felt tired and decided to head home. She promised to come back tomorrow and stay high in the sky until she had to descend. She took off and admired the breathtaking view. This was her fourth night as a gargoyle and she had come to enjoy it, the video notwithstanding. The view of the city with its glittering lights looked beautiful and magical. Of course I know that, up close, it is anything but beautiful and magical.
Elisa swooped down as she approached the apartment building but paused in mid-air. There was a small knot of people on the sidewalk and appeared to be holding weapons. They also appeared to be looking upward.
“There she is!” a shout came from below before a flurry of bullets came flying her way.
Elisa’s practice from that night took over as she spun and moved from side-to-side to avoid the bullets. Elisa barrel-rolled to avoid more bullets before she saw a familiar blue-skinned figure heading her way: Demona
Oh, great, she thought. That’s the last thing I-
Elisa cried out as a bullet hit her, putting a hole in her right wing. She heard Demona unleash her battle cry before she dove past Elisa and toward the people. They scattered but Demona did not pursue them; instead she soared up and landed beside Elisa who had landed and opened her window. She followed Elisa in and proceeded to examine Elisa’s injury.
“I don’t recommend gliding for the rest of the night,” she said.
“Uh, right,” Elisa said before backing away. “What are you doing here?”
“I just want to talk. I saw the video of the protest before thinking about my attempts to destroy the human race. I’ve come to the realization that I was wrong to do so. I would like to make up for my crimes by apologizing to the clan as well as you. Perhaps we could have some kind of friendly, if not a civil relationship?”
Elisa could hardly believe her ears. Demon repenting, asking for forgiveness and offering friendship? And yet, she has not caused trouble after trying to have Goliath killed.
Demona then gaped at her and pointed. “Your wing. It’s completely healed. How is that possible?”
“A combination of the natural healing process of a gargoyle and a human,” Elisa replied, seeing no reason to not tell her. If she’s willing to be friends, I have to be honest with her.
“I see,” she said. “And how did you become a gargoyle at night?”
“A formula designed by Castaway but carried out by a follower who is now in jail for assaulting me as he used a dart on me. It activated during the eclipse. Xanatos analyzed the traces of the formula on the dart and concluded that a sample of your DNA contributed to the change and healing process but nothing else.”
“He…used a sample from me?” Demona gave a low growl.
“I’m afraid so. Demona, I think we need to get to the root of why we don’t get along.”
Demona let out an amused laugh which was nicer than the ones Elisa had heard before. “Detective, I believe you know the reason as well as I do.”
She nodded. “Goliath.”
“And I should let him go. It is clear that our relationship ended centuries ago. You’re his new mate and I should move on.”
“Correct me if I’m wrong but you are married to Macbeth.”
Demona laughed again. “Yes, I still am and he is another I wish to reconcile with, but over the phone. If I simply show up at his place, he will kill me.”
“Good call. You know if you really wish to apologize to the clan, I can vouch for you. I’ll be heading back to the castle tomorrow night for more evasive maneuver practice.”
“I would like that…Elisa.” Demona flashed a sincere smile as she left the apartment.
Elisa stared out the window. Demona had addressed her by name. Not detective, not human, Elisa. That is a sign that she does want to make amends and I will stand by her when she apologizes to the clan. A meow caught her attention and she looked down to see her cat purring and rubbing against her leg. She smiled as she went to feed him.
Demona glided over the city, lost in thought. Her offer of friendship to Elisa went well considering the situation she had come across. She hadn’t expected to see Elisa get shot but it worked out as it served to affirm her desire to atone for her past. She was able to learn how Elisa ended up like her and cleared the air of why they were enemies. She had forgiven Elisa for stealing Goliath from her and acknowledged that she had to let him go.
Speaking of Goliath, he will be the first to disbelieve that I wish to make up for what I’ve done, but then again Brooklyn may be the first. I know that Angela would be willing to give me another chance. While I wait for tomorrow, I will call Macbeth and apologize for I was wrong to betray him.
Chapter Eleven- Atonement
“You…?” Macbeth trailed off.
“I was wrong to betray you,” Dominique said. “I was wrong for everything I did against you.”
“I…appreciate that, unless this is a trick.”
“No trick. I have finally opened my eyes to what I had done and feel ashamed of it. I want to make up for what I’ve done to you and the clan. I have already made amends with Elisa and she will vouch for me when I speak to the clan tonight.”
“All right. I will accept your apology but be warned: If this was an attempt at deception, I will kill you.”
Dominique smirked. “Now, that’s something every wife want to hear from her husband.”
Macbeth chuckled. “Yes, we are married, but if you want a divorce…”
“That’s not necessary. We’re both immortal and it makes sense for immortals to marry each other, doesn’t it?”
“Indeed. Well, it was nice talking to you and good luck tonight.”
“Thank you. Goodbye.” Dominique hung up before she leaned back with a smile. Macbeth and she were on speaking terms and he accepted that she was being truthful in regretting her betrayal. I know Elisa will be happy for me.
“Demona, that’s great,” Elisa said after letting the red-haired woman in and locking the door.
“Yes. It feels good knowing that I don’t have to watch my back for him.” She shed the simple dress she had worn over her night attire and slipped off the shoes.
“I haven’t seen our…friends from last night,” Elisa said sarcastically.
“You probably will later on. I was thinking of walking down the sidewalk to my home instead of gliding.”
“I’ll glide home myself, thanks.” Elisa smiled and Demona did too before both doubled over and changed forms before going out the window and off into the night.
It was a strange sensation for Elisa. It was just last night that Brooklyn spoke of dodging air opponents and yet she was gliding next to someone who had been an enemy but was now almost a friend. The clan is in for a surprise.
Demona was a little nervous about the coming confrontation but knew Elisa would defend her. I will let her speak first and then I will further explain myself. There is a lot to forgive and all I can do is ask them to forgive.
The castle came into view and as they got closer, the courtyard was visible as was the clan. Elisa felt her heart pounding as the two of them landed. The clan was smiling at her but then their faces became suspicious at seeing her companion.
“Demona!” Brooklyn exclaimed angrily. Elisa reacted by standing in front of Demona, arms and wings spread out.
“Elisa?” Goliath asked, not sure what was going on.
“Demona came to me last night to apologize for what she did to me over the years. We’re not really friends, but we’re not enemies either. She’s also made peace with Macbeth today. Now she wants to straighten things out with you.”
“Yeah, right,” Brooklyn said with a tone of disbelief.
“It’s true,” Demona said, stepping out from behind Elisa. “It all started when I saw the news story about Elisa. I was curious of how it happened. I then thought of how the city now accepts us and I felt my hate for humans fade a little.
“I then thought of my past. I have tried over the centuries to trust and live among humans but every time I was met with betrayal. I want to trust humans, but it never works out.”
“So, you are willing to try again?” Goliath asked slowly, clearly suspicious.
“Yes. Elisa trusts me.” She looked back at Elisa who nodded and said, “I trust you, Demona.”
Demona faced the clan again. “Macbeth and I have put the past in the past. I admitted that I was wrong to betray him as I didn’t trust him to not betray me. He has warned me that if I was trying to deceive him, he would kill me.” Her lips flicked up in an amused smile. “I have no intention of deceiving him or anyone else anymore.”
“How do we know that?” Brooklyn retorted. “I trusted you once and you lied to me!”
“I know and I am sorry. If I knew how to make it up to you, I would do it.”
Angela studied her mother’s body language and listened to her words. She seemed absolutely sincere in wanting to change. She had once wanted things to work out, but Demona ruined that with her scheme. Despite that though, she still had hope that Demona and the clan could get along. This could be that time. She stepped away from the clan and approached Demona who looked at her with true affection.
“Angela, I regret letting my hate get in the way of truly showing how much I love you. I would like for us to start over again.” She held out her arms.
“Mother,” Angela said before she rushed over and embraced her while Demona also hugged her.
Goliath regarded the hugging females and then as his current mate who gave him a pleading, hopeful look. He didn’t doubt Elisa when she said that Demona wanted to atone for what she had done to the clan ever since they had awakened in Manhattan but to just accept Demona’s word would be foolish and rash not to mention that his clan would not simply accept her back into the clan regardless of what he said.
I don’t trust her enough to believe she’s changed, though she has not tried anything since our last encounter. She will not rejoin the clan, but I can offer something else.
“Demona,” he said as mother and daughter separated. “I cannot overlook your attacks on us but I can forgive the ones aimed at me.”
Demona inclined her head. “Thank you.”
“Of course. I cannot say if anyone else will forgive however, I would like a truce to exist between you and the clan. I will not keep you and Angela apart.”
“A truce then, Goliath. That will do.” She turned to Angela and put a hand to her cheek. “I will see you later, my daughter.” She headed to the edge and gave Elisa a nod before taking off.
“You’re going to let her show up here when she wants?” Brooklyn asked.
“I said I won’t keep her and Angela apart and there is now a truce between us and her. Hopefully it leads to a peace between us.”
I hope so too, Elisa thought. A new peace would be a nice thing to add to this new era of acceptance. Acceptance of the clan and, in time, acceptance of me being part gargoyle.
